2012 Mohican-Loudonville Visitors Guide Page 9

Mohican State Park & Memorial Forest

The Mohican State Park and Forest is an outdoor lover's paradise, with

nearly 6,000 acres of rugged woodlands. Rocky outcroppings line the
hillsides, and in the spring cascading waterfalls trickle toward the Clear Fork
River as it winds through the valley far below. Autumn brings some of the
most spectacular foliage in the state.

Many come to Mohican for over 45 miles of scenic hiking trails - several

with trailheads near the iconic Covered Bridge in the heart of the park.
Others enjoy the shady forest on horseback along 3 beautiful bridle trails.
Mountain bikers flock to the challenging 25-mile loop through the forest.
Love the winter? Mohican also has great trails for snowmobiling and cross-
country skiing.

Mohican State Park and Forest is a fabulous destination for sightseeing.

One can't-miss attraction is the Gorge Overlook, a Registered National
Natural Landmark offering a stunning view of the Clearfork Gorge, which is
over a thousand feet wide and 300-feet deep. Climb atop the 80-foot fire
tower and enjoy the panoramic view. Pay respect at the Memorial Forest
Shrine, dedicated to over 20,000 Ohioans killed in war.

Picnickers will find many locations around the park equipped with

tables, latrines, drinking water, and charcoal grills for cooking. Enjoy a
family reunion near the covered bridge and wade in the cool water of the
Clear Fork. Contact the State Park office to reserve a pavilion.

Sportsmen flock to Mohican Forest to hunt wild turkey in the spring and

whitetail deer in the fall. Fishermen are drawn to the Clear Fork River in
search of saugeye in the tailwaters of Pleasant Hill Dam. Downstream, fly
fishermen cast the riffles and pools for smallmouth bass and trout.

And don't forget, Mohican State Park offers seasonal camping and cabin

rentals all year long.

Malabar Farm State Park

Next door to Mohican is Ohio's most unique State Park. Malabar Farm is

the estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author and conservationist Louis
Bromfield. His 32-room country home and working farm are dedicated to
preserving Bromfield's farming philosophies and providing a place where
visitors can explore nature and farm life.

Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart were married in Bromfield's "Big

House," which is filled with artifacts and is open to guided tours. The Visitor
Education Center boasts over 30 interactive exhibits that allow guests to
explore, learn, and experience agriculture, energy, and our environment.
Observe the farm animals in the barnyard, and take a wagon ride to view
Malabar's farming operation firsthand. Fish in one of the farm's stocked
ponds, explore a cave, or hike over 12 miles of scenic wooded trails that are
also open for cross-country skiing in winter. Bring your horse and enjoy a
weekend at Malabar's horse camp.

All year long Malabar Farm plays host to several special events, from barn

dances to hayrides. Maple Syrup Days is a late winter tradition. Each September,
visitors flock to Heritage Days - a must-see free event featuring crafts and living
history activities. Christmas at Malabar is especially festive with candlelight
tours through the Big House amidst 1940s-era holiday decorations.

Across the road take the winding drive to the peak of Mount Jeez. You'll

discover a panorama of the entire Malabar complex, as well as the most
spectacular view of Pleasant Valley.

Pathway Bridge in Dow

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For more information on Mohican & Malabar Farm State Parks

please go to...

www.DiscoverMohican.com